Bangladesh Political Turmoil Sparks Border Crisis with India

In the wake of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s abrupt resignation on August 5, nearly a dozen Bangladeshis have been arrested by India’s Border Security Force (BSF) while attempting to flee escalating violence in Bangladesh, VOA reported yesterday.

Hundreds more are stranded along the border, seeking refuge. Since Hasina’s ouster, reports indicate over 200 attacks on minority communities, particularly targeting Hindus, who make up about 8% of Bangladesh’s 170 million population.

The BSF confirmed the arrest of 11 individuals trying to sneak into West Bengal, while four others were turned away in Assam. Amid heightened tensions, India’s Home Minister Amit Shah announced the formation of a committee to ensure the safety of minorities. The interim government in Bangladesh expressed grave concern over the violence and pledged to address the attacks. As the situation stabilizes, police patrols have resumed in Dhaka, signaling a potential return to order amid ongoing political unrest.